If your bike was stored (or at least not used often) during winter, make sure it is stil in good condition.

How? Before you head out:› Make sure the tires are all properly inflated› Clean and lubricate the chains with grease for bicycles› Make sure all nuts and bolts are tight. If necessary, replace the rusty ones› Check if the brakes and lights are still functioning well

Cycling tours in the Netherlands

After making sure that your bike is good to go, how about enjoying some of the picturesque cycling routes the Netherlands has to offer?

› Dutch islands

Dutch islands attract numerous visitors not only due to the beautiful settings, magnificent beaches, sea and sand dunes, but also because of their excellent network of bicycle paths as well as cozy cafes and restaurants.

› Pancakes!

Cycling is fun but combining it with the famous local pancakes makes it a truly authentic Dutch experience. For example, De Lage Vuursche route goes through the woods of de Lage Vuursche near Utrecht. By following this route, you could also pay a visit to the Groeneveld Castle and try the traditional pancakes in the restaurants.

› Gardens & Parks

If you enjoy pretty gardens and beautiful parks, why don't you try cycling through some of the famous park and gardens in the Netherlands, such as the Hoge Veluwe national park? There is also a route specially designed to take you through the gardens of the castle in Arcen. The route starts at the Venlo train station and continues through different nature sites.

Cycle route planner

Google Maps' long-awaited feature is here to make the lives of those who are not very familiar with the biking routes in the Netherlands much easier!

OSM cycle route planner puts an extra layer on the map with step-by-step directions through the bike paths, bike-friendly roads and highways! A highly needed and helpful feature, especially for expats.